Dying Ash Trees Are Dangerous!
Dying ash trees are dangerous and their removal is important!
Ash trees killed by the Emerald Ash Borer become brittle and break easily as they decline and die. Once an ash tree has reached a point of severe decline (when the bark starts to fall from the trunk and branches), it becomes a considerable hazard and liability.
Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), was first discovered in the Dubuque area in 2015 and infestations have since spread throughout the tri-states. Most local ash trees are in an advanced state of decline or have died, unless they have been treated.
We were taught early on that as the trees decline, the force necessary to break a 1-inch diameter limb, would now break a 5-inch diameter limb. Professional arborists have been advised to curtail climbing these trees for that reason. Advanced ash tree degradation has caused some ash trees to unpredictably snap off at or near the base. Ash Snap is a term coined for this occurrence.
As EAB infestation continues to advance, the wood dries out and becomes brittle. We have recently learned that several aggressive wood decay fungi have been found to be associated with EAB galleries, causing structural damage contributing to significant loss of wood integrity. (Galleries are serpentine-shaped tunnels seen when the bark separates from the tree).
Ash deterioration begins with the infestation of the EAB. As the galleries created by EAB larva feeding beneath the bark disrupt sap flow, the tree begins to dry out and become brittle. Several aggressive wood decay fungi attack living wood cells within the galleries shortly after infestation. The combination of these two factors has created hazardous tree conditions.
If your ash tree is in an advanced state of decline (lost more than 30% of its crown) or has died and the bark is falling off, you should arrange to have the tree removed ASAP, before someone is injured, or property damage occurs.
Snow, ice and windstorms are the straw that breaks the proverbial camel’s back, and breakage occurs! Removing dead or declining ash trees is dangerous work. Contract with a local tree care professional.